The Hubble Space Telescope is a large telescope that orbits Earth and photographs distant stars, galaxies, and other stellar phenomena.
The Hubble Space Telescope in orbit above Earth
Without the distortion due to the atmosphere by being permanently positioned in low earth orbit, it has taken pictures of the farthest objects ever seen in the universe and very detailed pictures of closer objects. Five service missions were made to the Hubble Telescope including adjusting it to correct the faulty mirror system originally installed in it. The telescope is expected to operate until at least 2030.
Astronaut Dr. Mike Massimino twice visited the Hubble during two Space Shuttle repair missions and guest starred during a video conference call with Howard giving him the nickname “Froot Loops" and on later episodes he went to the International Space Station with Howard to install Howard's new telescope design. Later he has continued his friendship with Howard communicating by Skype.